Short Annapurna Circuit trek

Trip cost680 USD Book this Trip
Trip Duration 8 Days
Destination Nepal
Trip Grade Strenuous
Activity Trekking
Transportation Public Vehicle
Accomodation Lodge to lodge
Meals Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Max. Altitude 5,416 m
More Facts Less Facts

Short Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary basically escapes the trekking in the foothills and gives you more time in the scenic Himalayan Shangrila valley of Manang. The newly extended dirt road makes it easy to drive further into the Marshyangdi valley and start the trek from Chame. Similarly trekkers can also drive back from Muktinath or Jomsom on the other side of the Thorong La pass.  

The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands as a renowned trek, highly regarded as one of the premier trekking routes in Nepal. This trek ascends upstream the Marsyangdi river valley, to the Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters, and descends to the northern region of the Annapurna massif, resembling a desert along the banks of the Kaligandaki river. The Annapurna Region is celebrated for its natural beauty and multiculturalism, rightfully earning its status as Nepal's magnificent trail. This trail is rich in cultural diversity, with the presence of highland ethnic groups of Thakali, Manangi, and Gurung communities, offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking views of the mountain ranges.

How Safe is Short Annapurna Circuit Trek ? 

The trek itinerary is safe against altitude as the driving just escapes the undulating, hot and humid foothills but starts the trekking from comfortable altitude to acclimatize. The trek starting point Chame is  2710 m | 8,891 ft.. From Chame, we gain the altitude of 540 m over the six hours of trekking to Pisang. From Pisang,  we take a detour of the higher route that goes to the altitude of 3,700 m and come down to Manang at 3,520 m. 'Trekking high and sleeping low' helps to acclimatize with the altitude. The itinerary follows the standards of rest day for acclimatization and trekking slowly at the higher elevation. 

Trip Highlights

  • Save time but yet allow you to explore the remote Himalayan valleys. 
  • Escape the trek in the hot and humid undulating trails in lower altitude.
  • Avoid walking on dusty dirt roads.
  • Save your energy for trekking and spending more time in the scenic Manang valley. 
  • The adventure of crossing 5,516 m Thorong La pass. 
  • Trek down to the arid trans-Himalayan region of Mustang. 
  • Traverse the world's deepest gorge between Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. 

Outline Day to Day Itinerary:

  • Day 01:Drive to Besisahar and further to Chame
  • Day 02:Trek to Pisang
  • Day 03:Trek to Manang
  • Day 04:Rest day for acclimatization
  • Day 05:Trek to Yak Kharka
  • Day 06:Trek to Thorong Phedi
  • Day 07:Cross Thorong La pass and down to Muktinath
  • Day 08:Drive to Pokhara

Cost Includes

  • Necessary trekking permits. ACAP (Annapurna conservation Area Project) and TIMS (Trekking information management system)
  • Bus to Besisahar and Jeep on sharing to Chame (Private transport for extra cost)
  • Trekking with licensed and experienced guide and necessary porters.
  • Teahouse accommodation with three meals a day during the trek. 
  • Bus from Jomsom to Pokhara. Private transportation or flight is available for extra cost.
  • One night accommodation in Pokhara in standard hotel with breakfast and taxes included.

Cost Excludes

  • Any type of insurances. Rescue and evacaution will be done on your account.
  • Delay and cancellation because of natural phenomenon. 
  • Meals beside beakfast while in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Bottled drinks and beverages, toiletries and things of personal nature purchased by clients. 
  • Tea breaks and snacks bought by clients beside three meals. 
  • Tips for guide and porter. 
  • Great Adventure | Professional service
    Chanta P
    Australia Published: Saturday, May 25, 2024

    Great Adventure | Professional service

    Rating:

    Last month we had the greatest experience of being amazed by the Annapurna circuit. We took the tour w Rabi and his hospitality was outstanding. He organised for us the circuit on the Himalayas with the safari Tour in Chitwan NP. We had a tiny inconvenience and Rabi sorted out with professionalism and efficiency. Our porter Hari was the best company ever, him and the guide Jack organised a surprise cake for our anniversary

  • An unforgetable Adventure
    Julia S
    Canada Published: Thursday, September 28, 2023

    An unforgetable Adventure

    Rating:

    My partner and I did a customized 15-day itinerary of the Annapurna Circuit with iTour Nepal and it was one of the best trips of our lives! Rabi was extremely helpful from day one, from assisting us in building the itinerary to allowing us to customize to our needs and even helping us in booking flights along the way! Unfortunately one of our bags never arrived from Canada, and Rabi was very kind to let us borrow his backpack so that we didn’t have to buy all new stuff. When we got back from the trek, Rabi and his wife hosted us at their beautiful homestay for the day while we waited for our flight and really supported us through an unfortunate bout of food poisoning by running out to get us medication and driving us to the airport. We can’t recommend Rabi’s company highly enough- he is very knowledgeable of the area, thoughtful, flexible, generous, and will go out of his way to make your trip unforgettable. Our only regret is not staying at his family’s homestay- Kopila’s Homestay- when in Kathmandu. Next time! Thanks so much to Rabi and his wonderful family!

Usefull Info

Customize Annapurna Circuit Trek 

Annapurna Circuit Trek could be customized with a side trip to Tilecho Lake, detour via Nar and Phu village (Nar Phu Trek). We can also combine it with the Annapurna Base camp trek. Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna base camp takes about 16 - 18 days from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Write to us to customize the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

How Hard is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is classified as moderately difficult. It necessitates a decent level of physical fitness and mental readiness due to the diverse terrains, high mountain passes, and fluctuating altitudes. Although no technical climbing abilities are necessary, the trek calls for endurance, strength, and resilience.

Fitness required for the trek 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek requires participants to engage in prolonged walking at elevated altitudes. To meet these physical challenges, it is essential to possess strong cardiovascular fitness. Begin by integrating consistent aerobic activities such as hiking, jogging, or cycling into your exercise regimen. Focus on enhancing your endurance to ensure you can walk for extended durations without experiencing fatigue.
Concentrate on developing your legs, core, and upper body. Engaging in exercises such as squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups will assist in building the essential strength. Additionally, training with a backpack can replicate the experience of trekking and condition your body for the added weight.

Acclimatization from altitude in Annapurna Circuit trek

Altitude sickness poses a potential risk during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Despite the fact that the itinerary adheres to the basic standards of acclimatization, there are several measures that trekkers can take to enhance their acclimatization. It is advisable to hike or spend time at higher altitudes before commencing the trek. Additionally, while on the trek, engage in some light walking to higher elevations from the teahouses and return after spending some time there. Whenever possible, trek at higher altitudes and sleep at lower elevations. Ensure to consume a minimum of 3 liters of water daily. It is recommended to carry Diamox (Acetazolamide) and take it preventatively if there are any doubts.

Equipment and Gear 

It is essential to invest in high-quality trekking equipment that is both comfortable and appropriate for the specific conditions of your trek. Ensure that your hiking boots are properly broken in and that your backpack is well-fitted. The selection of suitable gear can greatly enhance your overall trekking experience.

Weather in Annapurna Circuit trek

Weather in Annapurna Circuit trek varies drastically because of its rising altitude and different geographical features. Temperature during the peak seasons of October and April may range from 28 C to -5 °C at higher elevation. This is one of the best treks for September and May as it is warmer and less likely to snow storm. Both September and May have rainy days. Temperature ranges from 28 to -10°C during the months of March and November. It is likely to snow as well. One must also be prepared for the strong wind on the other side of Thorong La pass. Kali Gandaki valley is known as windy valley. 

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